Pond ceremony will honor man’s heroism over Route 66

The headquarters of a medical society on Monday will rename its pond after a man for his heroic — and ultimately fatal — deed over Route 66 exactly 85 years ago in the Chicago area.

The North American Spine Society of Burr Ridge, Illinois, at 10 a.m. Monday will name its pond after Bruno F. Schustek and install a plaque to commemorate his air rescue on July 6, 1930.

The news release about the event provides the details:

On July 6, 1930, 20-year old Chicago heiress and novice parachutist Mary “Merry” Fahrney took off in a plane from Stinson Airport on Route 66 in what is now McCook, IL. During her jump, her chute caught on the plane’s wing, causing her to dangle 1,000 feet above the ground for a harrowing two hours. Several rescue attempts were made while her plane circled the area overhead, drawing spectators from miles around. Bruno F. Schustek, a former German WWI flying ace and parachute instructor, and pilot Charles “Bud” Geiger carefully flew their plane above her. Schustek, 30, climbed down a knotted rope and attempted to free Fahrney’s parachute. Within minutes, her chute was freed, sending her drifting safely to the ground. Weary from this herculean effort, Schustek lost his grip on the rope and fell 600 feet to his death as he tried to climb back to his plane. Fahrney went on to a brief career in Hollywood, married several times (once to legendary fashion designer Oleg Cassini) and had a son. She died in 1974. The site of the accident is approximately one-quarter mile from the pond that now bears his name.

The amazing story was uncovered by Maria Traska, Joseph Kubal and Keith Yearman,  authors of the forthcoming book, “The Curious Traveler’s Guide to Route 66 in Metro Chicago.”

Traska also is known by roadies through her Curious Travelers Guide to Route 66 in Metro Chicago blog.

(Image of Bruno Schustek courtesy of NASS)